Syrian forces are battling insurgents just north of the strategic central city of Hama where they are attempting to advance after seizing most of Aleppo.

Intense airstrikes overnight drove Syrian rebels back from the edge of Hama, a major city whose fall would pile pressure on President Bashar al-Assad, both sides said on Wednesday.

Iranian FM says Tehran will consider sending troops if Damascus asks; Israel said to fear chemical weapons could fall into wrong hands during takeover of regime military facilities